moco
“moco” means “snot” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
snot, mucus
Also: booger
📝 In Action
El bebé tiene muchos mocos por el resfriado.
A1The baby has a lot of snot because of the cold.
Límpiate los mocos con un pañuelo.
A2Wipe your nose with a tissue.
Tenía un moco seco en la nariz y no se dio cuenta.
B1He had a booger in his nose and didn't realize it.
wattle
📝 In Action
El pavo tiene un moco rojo muy llamativo.
C1The turkey has a very striking red wattle.
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: moco
Question 1 of 3
What does the idiom 'llorar a moco tendido' mean?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'muccus', which referred to the same substance. It is a very old word that has changed very little over two thousand years.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'moco' a bad word?
No, but it's very informal and can be a bit 'gross' depending on the social setting. In a formal medical setting, use 'mucosidad'.
Why is 'mocoso' used for children?
Because young children often have runny noses. Calling a child a 'mocoso' is like calling them a 'snotty-nosed brat' in English.
Can I use 'moco' for the toy slime children play with?
Yes! In many countries, that toy is often called 'moco de gorila' (gorilla snot) or simply 'moco'.